Panel study · 18+
Four panels.
One readable change.
The simplest useful storyboard is a sequence of decisions. This original exercise follows three fictional adults at a railway station and a case that belongs to somebody else.
Establish the mix-up
The courier stops beside a bench and notices that the case’s clasp is different. Show the bench, the case and enough of the station to establish the location.
Continuity anchor: the case starts in the courier’s right hand. A round brass tag hangs from its handle.
Give the reader a clue
A closer view reveals a destination printed on the tag. The attendant points toward the correct platform. This panel changes what the courier knows.
Dialogue job: one short direction, such as “Platform three.” The tag carries the other information.
Show the decision
The courier turns toward the indicated platform and carries the case back. Use a wider view if the route matters; a clear movement can replace another line of dialogue.
Direction check: keep the platform entrance on the same side of the scene unless the viewpoint visibly changes.
Resolve the action
The adult owner recognises the case and takes it. The clasp and tag remain visible, so the reader can connect the object to the opening panel.
Ending check: the case has changed hands and the practical problem is resolved. No extra panel is required just to restate that result.
Review the joins between panels
Read the sequence without dialogue first. If the movement and object are clear, add only the words that supply missing information. Then read the dialogue without the images. Repeated information is a place to simplify.
Keep scale changes intentional. A close-up can reveal the tag, while a wide view can explain the journey. Four panels here describe four story jobs; they are not a rule about every comic page or a promise that the editor uses a specific layout.
The worksheet has separate fields for beats, cast anchors and continuity. Use it for your own nonsexual adventure, mystery or everyday scene, and keep any references within the rights you hold.